The Hidden Hurdle: The critical role of proponent preparedness in bioeconomy approvals
Erik Larsen, Senior Consultant, JEP Environment & Planning
Roadblocks to getting bioeconomy projects approved can be caused by both regulators and business proponents. Many roadblocks are avoidable, but they can create frustration, significant delays and costs, or at worst failure to gain an approval.
Specialist regulators might be very knowledgeable in their area of expertise but lack an understanding of a technology’s broader context. Manageable impacts (e.g. through mitigation) in one discipline may obscure larger benefits across multiple disciplines.
Regulators might also hold negative preconceptions or misconceptions about a technology and be hyper-cautious in their assessment – particularly if the technology is controversial or receives negative media attention. A limited depth of knowledge could be overcome by deep-dive research into a proposed technology, helping a regulator carry out their science-based due diligence assessment.
But in practicality, they rely heavily on the quality of the information provided by a proponent. If the information provided to them is poorly organised, unclear or missing key information, delays and an unfavourable outcome may result.
For the proponent, early identification of a realistic and achievable planning and approval pathway is critical.
To minimise the chances of a refused or failed application, a proponent is advised to prepare the following information in writing:
- Detailed preliminary project scope, including a thorough description of plant, equipment, processes and operations.
- Due diligence assessment outlining the relevant permits/licensing required, permissibility and likely environmental studies that may be required based on the proposed location.
- Pre-lodgement meeting(s) with the relevant Council, DPHI and/or agencies to explain the project and confirm all government requirements.
Though the road may be bumpy, once the planning pathway is confirmed and regulator expectations are understood, the full application process can proceed more smoothly.
Each essay in the Building the Bioeconomy series offers a short, actionable reflection from contributors to the 2024 AIEN Bioeconomy Conference. Together they explore the themes, challenges, and opportunities shaping Australia’s emerging Bioeconomy – highlighting practical pathways, fresh perspectives, and the steps needed to turn strategy into real industry impact. The views expressed are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position of AIEN.
If you attended the 2024 AIEN Bioeconomy Conference and believe you have a perspective worth sharing in a future essay, we’d love to hear from you. Please email us at info@aien.com.au.